The NC Values Institute, has filed an amicus brief in International Partners For Ethical Care, Inc. vs. Ferguson. This case involves a Washington state law that allows state officials to provide so-called “gender-affirming treatments” to runaway children without their parents’ knowledge or consent. The law is founded on nondisclosure, instructing shelter officials not to inform parents about their child’s expression of gender unless the child consents. Our brief argues that the Supreme Court should overturn a Ninth Circuit decision upholding the Washington state law, because a parent’s right to oversee the upbringing of their child is fundamental and the state may only override parental authority in cases of imminent danger. It contends the law violates fundamental constitutional rights by excluding parents from major decisions about their children (i.e., changing their sex), lacks due process protections, and infringes on speech and religious liberty. Parental rights historically extend to medical decisions, and children lack the maturity to make their own medical decisions. Our brief argues that it is imperative that the State of Washington respect parental rights to be informed and to consent when a child asks to socially transition or requests “gender-affirming” treatments. These are the first steps on a journey likely to end in deep regret and disaster.
International Partners For Ethical Care, Inc. vs. Ferguson Amicus Brief
February 19, 2026
“As a society, we need to cherish the institutions that bring us into existence, and give our existence meaning. I believe human flourishing starts with the heart and the home.”
“While we are zealously performing the duties of good citizens and soldiers, we certainly ought not to be inattentive to the higher duties of religion. To the distinguished character of Patriot, it should be our highest glory to add the more distinguished character of Christian.”
“… if we descend still lower and go down to families, it is true even there that the village is composed of families and not that the families are cut from the village. The family was there first, and only then could the village take shape. Finally, if the village vanished there would still be families; but if the households were to disband the village too would come to an end.”
Paid for by the NC Values Institute.
The Institute for Faith and Family is a non-partisan, statewide non-profit education organization that qualifies for tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. It is based in Raleigh, NC.
